Explore the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is one of only six zoo and aquarium combinations in the entire United States. The zoo is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States and covers an area of 77 acres of land with over 4000 animals from 475 various species.
There are 70 species from these which are endangered. The Pittsburgh Zoo aims to promote and encourage continuous connections between animals and people through conservation projects, educational programs, and exhibitions. The main aim of the zoo is to discover how to unite the natural world and in the process make the earth an appropriate place for all forms of life to live in.
African Savanna
An immersive experience with majestic wildlife
The African Savanna exhibit also showcases the impressive African elephants, the gentle giants of the animal kingdom. Watch as they meander gracefully, their massive bodies moving with surprising grace and agility. Observing these magnificent creatures up close is an unforgettable experience that truly highlights the wonders of the animal world.
As you enter, the expansive landscape stretches out before you, resembling the vast savannas of Africa. The air is filled with the sounds of exotic birds chirping, the distant calls of lions, and the gentle rustling of tall grasses. It truly feels like you have been transported to another world.
Your eyes are immediately drawn to the towering giraffes gracefully grazing on leaves from the treetops. Their long necks and elegant strides make them a sight to behold. Nearby, a group of zebras roam freely, their striking black and white stripes blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
Asian Forest
Encounter endangered species from the Asian continent
One of the highlights of the Asian Forest is the majestic Amur tiger. With its striking orange coat and piercing eyes, this magnificent creature commands attention as it gracefully prowls through its habitat. As one of the most endangered big cats in the world, encountering an Amur tiger in person is a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Another fascinating inhabitant of the Asian Forest is the elusive clouded leopard. Known for its unique spotted coat and incredibly agile nature, this elusive feline is a sight to behold. Watch in awe as it effortlessly climbs trees and leaps from branch to branch, showcasing its remarkable acrobatic abilities.
The Asian Forest is also home to the endangered red panda, a creature that resembles a cross between a fox and a raccoon. With its vibrant red fur and fluffy tail, the red panda is a crowd favorite. Take a moment to observe these adorable creatures as they engage in their playful antics, and you’ll instantly fall in love with their charm.
Kids Kingdom
A playground of interactive exhibits for young animal lovers
One of the highlights of the Kids Kingdom is the Animal Care Center, where children can get a firsthand look at how the zoo takes care of its animal residents. They can observe zookeepers in action, learn about the animals’ diets, and even participate in feeding demonstrations.
For those who are fascinated by nocturnal creatures, the Nocturnal House is a must-visit exhibit. Here, children can explore the mysterious world of animals that come alive at night. From adorable bats to elusive owls, they will have the chance to observe these creatures up close and learn about their unique adaptations.
The Kids Kingdom also boasts an impressive petting zoo, where little ones can interact with friendly farm animals. They can feed and pet goats, sheep, and even miniature horses fostering a sense of empathy and connection with these gentle animals.
In addition to these hands-on experiences, the Kids Kingdom offers a range of play areas and climbing structures that provide endless entertainment for children. From crawling through tunnels to scaling colorful structures, kids can burn off energy while experiencing the joy of play in a nature-inspired setting.
PPG Aquarium
Dive into an underwater world of mesmerizing marine life
As you venture through the Pittsburgh Zoo, don’t miss the opportunity to dive into an enchanting underwater world at the PPG Aquarium. This captivating exhibit is a must-see for visitors of all ages, offering a truly immersive experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the ocean.
Step into the PPG Aquarium, and you’ll immediately be transported to a world brimming with vibrant colors, fascinating creatures, and the soothing sounds of water. The aquarium boasts a diverse collection of marine life, showcasing species from around the globe in beautifully recreated habitats that mimic their natural environments.
Coral reef exhibit
As you gaze upon the intricate coral formations, you’ll witness a mesmerizing array of fish darting gracefully through the vibrant ecosystem. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the coral reef will leave you mesmerized, as you marvel at the delicate balance of life that exists within this fascinating underwater realm.
Shark tunnel
Step inside this unique and immersive exhibit, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the majestic beauty of these powerful creatures. As sharks glide effortlessly overhead, you’ll have a rare opportunity to observe them up close and gain a newfound appreciation for their strength and grace.
The PPG Aquarium also houses a variety of other captivating exhibits, including tanks showcasing playful sea otters, graceful sea turtles, and mesmerizing jellyfish. Each exhibit offers a unique glimpse into the diverse marine ecosystems that exist around the world, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of life beneath the waves.
The Water’s Edge
Discover fascinating aquatic animals and ecosystems
Step into “The Water’s Edge”, and you’ll be transported to different aquatic habitats, each carefully recreated to provide a glimpse into the diverse and fascinating world beneath the water’s surface. From the tranquil rivers to the vibrant coral reefs, this exhibit showcases the incredible variety of aquatic life that exists.
One of the highlights of this exhibit is the mesmerizing underwater tunnel. As you walk through this tunnel, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an awe-inspiring display of marine life. Sharks gracefully glide overhead, while colorful schools of fish dart around you. It’s an immersive experience that allows you to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, all while remaining dry!
“The Water’s Edge” also features interactive displays and educational information that provide insights into the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems. Learn about the interconnectedness of marine life, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts being made to protect them.
Animal encounters
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, don’t miss out on the behind-the-scenes experiences and animal encounters they offer. These unique opportunities allow visitors to get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet.
Penguin Encounter
During this exclusive encounter, you’ll have the chance to meet and interact with these adorable and charismatic birds. You’ll learn about their behaviors, and conservation efforts, and even get the opportunity to touch one of them. It’s an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for these incredible creatures.
Cheetah Encounter
Here, you’ll have the rare opportunity to meet one of the fastest land animals on Earth. You’ll get to learn about their incredible speed and agility, as well as the conservation efforts being made to protect them in the wild. It’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you in awe of these magnificent predators.
Sea Lion Encounter
You’ll get to meet and interact with these playful and intelligent creatures, and even have the chance to participate in a training session with them. It’s an educational and entertaining experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the incredible abilities of sea lions.
Pittsburgh Zoo Information
The Pittsburgh Zoo opened its doors to visitors on June 14, 1898. An additional children’s zoo was inaugurated in 1949 and the aquarium center, now known as the PPG Aquarium, was opened in 1967. This particular aquarium was the only public aquarium in Pennsylvania and was also the second biggest in the entire country.
A few other special attributes of this zoo are that it is one of the very few zoos to have an outdoor elevator and escalator. The elevators were first initiated in the year 1898 and have been modernized many times since installation. This zoo is a must for any tourists to visit when on travel to Pittsburgh PA.
The zoo added many feathers to its crown over the years. The Asian Forest (1893) with tigers and Komodo dragons etc, the 5-acre indoor Tropical Forest (1991) with various monkeys, and the African Savanna (1987) with lions, elephants, gazelle, etc. are some of the prime places that attract visitors who are on Pittsburgh PA travel. A $17.4 million state-of-the-art Aquarium opened in 2000 and this was double the size of the earlier Aqua Zoo, housing more aquatic animals than before.
Pittsburgh Zoo Address
7340 Butler Street Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Contact:
Tel: (412) 665-3640
Member Services Phone: (412) 365-2534
Email: [email protected]
Pittsburgh Zoo Hours:
April 1 – May 28: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
May 29 – September 6: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
September 7 – March 31: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Ticket Information for the Pittsburgh Zoo:
For more information about membership packages and benefits, call the Member Services Manager at (412) 365-2534 or (412) 365-2585.
Current Zoo Admission Rates
Adult: $13
Seniors (60+ years of age): $12
Children (ages 2-13): $11
Children under 24 months: Free
Parking: Free
Dec. 1 – March 31 Rates
Adult: $9
Seniors (60+ years of age): $8
Children (ages 2-13): $8
Children under 24 months: Free
Parking: Free
Hotels Near Pittsburgh Zoo
Established on the 14th of June 1898, the Pittsburg Zoo provides visitors with rare glimpses of plants and animals hardly seen by them before. Visitors to Pittsburg rarely fail to visit this amazing spot to learn more about animals from close quarters. Apart from being just a zoo, this tourist attraction also provides guests with special interactive exhibits that replicate the exact natural habitat of certain animals.
One of the latest additions to such exhibits is the “Water’s Edge” where visitors can learn more about sand tiger sharks, sea otters, and polar bears. Avail of Pittsburg hotel packages while visiting this zoo.
Not only will staying at one of these Pittsburgh hotels save you time and money on transportation, but they also provide high-speed internet so you can stay connected with your business associates while in town. And don’t worry about doing your laundry – the friendly hotel staff can take care of that for you.
When you stay close to the Pittsburg Zoo, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the facility during the day, as well as check out some of the nearby restaurants and shops when the zoo closes at night. And don’t forget to ask about complimentary passes to any special events that may be happening during your stay. The front desk will happily provide you with all the information you need.
So if you’re planning a trip to Pittsburgh for a tour of the zoo, make sure to book one of the nearby hotels. It’s an easy way to ensure your stay is both convenient and comfortable!
1. Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh Shadyside Hotel
5308 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Phone: (412) 683-3113
2. Holiday Inn Pittsburgh North
2801 Freeport Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15238-1497
Phone: (412) 828-9300
3. Inn on Negley
703 South Negley Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Phone: (412) 661-0631
4. Shadyside Inn
5405 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232-2255
Phone: (412) 441-4444
5. Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland
3896 Bigelow Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Phone: (412) 621-2200
6. Sunnyledge Hotel of Shadyside
5124 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Phone: (412) 683-5014
7. Holiday Inn Pittsburgh University Center
100 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Phone: (412) 682-6200
8. Hampton Inn Pittsburgh Oakland University Center Hotel
3315 Hamlet Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
Phone: (412) 681-1000
9. Wyndham Pittsburgh University Place
3454 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Phone: (412) 683-2040
10. Quality Inn University Center
3401 Blvd of the Allies, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3906
Phone: (412) 683-6100
FAQs on Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium
How long does it take to go through the Pittsburgh Zoo?
Most visitors spend around 4-5 hours leisurely exploring the numerous exhibits at the Pittsburgh Zoo. However, if you’re short on time, a quick visit of about two hours is possible as well.
How long is the walk around Pittsburgh Zoo?
The total walking path of the Pittsburgh Zoo spans 2.2 miles, although this will vary depending on which attractions you choose to explore.
How much does it cost to park at the Pittsburgh Zoo?
Parking at the Pittsburgh Zoo is free of charge – just another great reason to make your way over!
What is special about Pittsburgh Zoo?
The Pittsburgh Zoo has a lot to offer. From awe-inspiring animal encounters to interactive learning opportunities, it’s easy to see why so many find joy in exploring this enchanting place. Of course, being able to observe incredible creatures like giraffes, elephants, lions, tigers, and flamingos never gets old either!
Does Pittsburgh Zoo have rides?
No, unfortunately the Pittsburgh Zoo does not offer any rides at this time.
Does Pittsburgh Zoo have an aquarium?
Yes! The Pittsburgh Zoo has its own incredible aquarium called The AquaZone where visitors can witness amazing aquatic species such as seahorses, jellyfish, and stingrays.
Can I use my EBT card at Pittsburgh Zoo?
Yes! The EBT Cardholder Program at the Pittsburgh Zoo allows eligible guests to purchase discounted admission tickets with their EBT card.
Does Pittsburgh Zoo have dolphins?
Yes! While dolphins are not native to the region, sealife enthusiasts can still get an up-close look at them in The AquaZone aquarium.
Can you bring outside food to Pittsburgh Zoo?
Yes, guests can bring outside food into the Pittsburgh Zoo. Please be mindful, however, that glass containers and alcoholic beverages are prohibited on site.
Does the Pittsburgh Zoo have elephants?
Yes! At the Pittsburgh Zoo, you can spot real African elephants roaming around the African Savanna exhibit. The elephants can often be found happily lounging near a watering hole or eating hay from a nearby shelter.
Final Word
We hope you enjoyed our virtual tour of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and the must-see exhibits we highlighted in this blog post. The zoo and aquarium are truly wonders to behold, offering a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. From the majestic African savannah to the enchanting underwater world, each exhibit offers a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit to Pittsburgh, we highly recommend exploring these exhibits to create unforgettable memories. So grab your camera, pack your curiosity, and get ready to embark on a wild adventure at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium!